Brian and Monica first met in person in July 2023, but their story began even earlier. In January 2023, while Brian was in Ireland on a mission trip, he came across a suggested friend on Facebook late one night. He didn’t know who she was, but he immediately noticed how beautiful she was and could see her love for God, and serving others through her posts. He knew he wanted to meet this mystery girl and, on January 12, Brian prayed that somehow, somewhere, God would allow him to meet Monica Yoder. A few months later, while traveling to Texas to speak at a youth camp, Brian was invited to a young adults' cookout at a friend's house. One of the first people he saw when he walked in the house was Monica! After talking to her that night he knew he wanted to get to know her better and realized she was even more incredible in person than he had imagined. Shortly after, they became friends on social media, and Brian continued to pray for another chance to meet Monica. Nearly five months later, Brian returned to San Antonio to participate in a missions conference at Monica's church. Once again, he couldn't stop thinking about her or wanting to talk to her. Brian thought he was being very smooth, but it was clear to many people (including Monica) that he was interested! Over that week, he learned more about her great sense of humor, her love for sports, and her heart for Jesus and serving Him anywhere God would lead. It became clear to him that Monica was exactly who he had been praying for, so he asked her out on a date. On October 23rd, they went on their first date, and the rest is history. (As a side note: Brian did forget to bring his wallet on their first "nice" date, but we don’t bring that up too often...) God has been so kind in bringing Brian and Monica together and showing His grace and mercy throughout their relationship, especially with the challenges of long distance. Although they have been separated by many miles for most of their relationship, they’ve always prioritized their communication and commitment to each other. It has also been a blessing to get to spend time with each other's families and spend most holidays together! On July 7th, Brian flew to Texas to surprise Monica and asked her to marry him. They are so excited to begin their next chapter together as husband and wife, serving and loving each other while living for Jesus.

Not only will Brian and Monica be starting their marriage, but they will also be starting a ministry together as they follow God’s leading to Ireland as missionaries. They desire to be a team wherever God places them—teaching the Bible, reaching people for Jesus, training and discipling others, and starting Bible studies and churches. This next chapter will be a big adjustment, but it will also be an exciting journey. They would appreciate your prayers as they serve Christ together!